Sensing device



Feb. 1, 1938.

w. w. LASKER, JR

SENSING DEVICE Filed Feb. 6, 1935 ll Sheets-Sheet l INVENTOR Feb. 1, 1938.

W. W. LASKER, JR

SENSING DEVICE Filed Feb. 6, 1935. ll Sheets-Sheet 2 INVENTOR Feb. 1, 1938- w, w, LASKER, JR 2,107,0Q8

SENSING DEVICE? Filed Feb. 6, 1935 ll Sheets-Sheet 3 MAR 23 10.3

MAR 8.0

FOREMAN DEPT N0.

RATE H RS MEOF PART OPERATION N 5 APRIL 17, l |.5

APRIL l7, 8.5

HOUFG INSPECTEDBY DED BY HECKED BY -N FORE MAN M FARTNO. OPE C55 RATE HRS AMOUNT D SHED INVENTOR w. w. LASKER, JR

Feb. 1, 1938.

SENSING DEVICE Filed Feb. 6, 1935 ll Sheets-Sheet 4 INVENTOR Feb. 1 938- w. w. LASKER, R

SENSING DE E INVENTOR /VaW Filed Feb. 6, 35

Feb. 1, 1938. w w LASKER' JR 2,107,008

SENSING DEVICE Filed Feb. 6, 1955 ll Sheets-Sheet 6 INVENTOR Feb. 1, 1938.

w. w, LASKER, JR

SENSING DEVICE Filed Feb. 6, 1935 11 Sheets-Sheet 7 o m W% m Feb. 1, 1938. w. w. LASKER, JR

SENSING DEVICE Filed Feb. 6, 1955 ll Sheets-Sheet 8 INVENTOR Feb. 1, 1938.

W. W. LASKER, JR

SENSING DEVICE 11 Sheets-Sheet 11 Filed Feb. 6, 1955 INVENTOR Patented Feb. 1, 1938 UNITED STATES PATENT OFFICE SENSING DEVICE William W. Laslrer, In, Brooklyn, N. Y.

- Application February 6, 1935, Serial No. 5.210

9 Claims.

This invention relates to sensing devices and, more particularly, to sensing devices for analyzing data designated on records by means of perforations or conductive markings at predetermined positions. I

Various methods of recording data have been utilized in many differenttabulator machine instaliations, of which shop cost accounting is typically illustrative. It has been the practice in shop cost accounting to provide each workman with a card upon which he writes, at a place assigned for the purpose, information regarding his particular job, such as work order, date, number of pieces, rate, etc. When the job is completed, the card is given to a punch operator who perforates it in accordance with the information indicated on it. This perforating operation may be performed by machines which have been devised heretofore wherein the sensing of the original written record and the punching of a new record is done automatically in accordance with data contained' on the original written record.

In accordance with the present invention, it 25 is not necessary to make the two records, one written and the other perforated, mentioned in the preceding paragraph, in order to secure a report of activities. On the contrary, it is possible to analyze the original data whether or not this may be in the form of perforations or conductive markings. v

The principal object of this invention is to provide means for automatically sensing original records, upon which has been entered data in graphic or other forms or by perforations. In accordance with the present invention, it is proposed to sense data of this type without resorting to the procedure of making a new record from the original one, or perforating the record in accordance with written information thereon as heretofore has been the general practice. As a means of illustration, this invention will be described in connection with shop cost accounting, and it is to be understood that the inven- 45 too is not limited to this application, but may also be employed for many other uses.

The specific object of this invention is to provide means for sensing data arranged in columnar form and designated by perforations 50 and/or conductive markings.

A further object of the invention is to provide means for sensing suchdesignations whether or not they read in straight, 'combinational or group form.

55 A further object is to provide means for splitting the columnar sensing arrangement as may be desired.

A further object is to provide means for sensing data indicated at one position to be registered as that of another position. 5

A further object is to provide means for sensing perforations and rejecting markings.

A further object is to'provide means for sensing markings and rejecting perforations.

This invention contemplates a device for auto- 10 matically sensing either single or plural columns of data which may be indicated in either straight or combinational code by either perforations or conductive marks on paper cards or by the removal of the insulation at the index points of '15 cards made by conductive material.

Other objects and structural details of the invention will be apparent from the following description when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein:

Fig. 1 is an isometric view of the front portion of a sorter in which the invention is embodied.

Fig. 2 is a diagrammatic side view of the machine illustrated in Fig. 1. a

Fig. 3 is an illustration of record card of the type that may be used in a sorter which embodies the present invention.

Fig. 4 is an illustration of a diflerent form of record card.

Fig. 5 is an illustration of another form of record card.

Fig. 6 is a side sectional elevation of the sensing pins assembled in the analyzer as described in connection with this invention.

Fig. 'l is a front sectional elevation taken on line 1-1 of Fig. 6.

Fig. 8 is a sectional view of the sensing pin, such as is used in the assembly shown in Fig. 6.

Fig. 9 is a fragmentary view in sectional elevation showing means for maintaining electric contact between the sensing pin and the various receptacles and contact strips.

Fig. 10 is a diagrammatic isometric view of the principal elements and connecting circuits of the invention. The elements are not, however, shown in their exact relative positions.

Fig. 11 is a diagram showing the wiring necessary for the embodiment of the sensing device shown in Fig. 6.

Fig. 12 is an isometric view of an assembly 60 comprising the relays and manipulative switch which form part of this invention.

Fig. 13 is a sectional view of the -pedestal support for the forward end of the machine taken through the relay box.

14 shows the wiring diagram for group sensing, for data represented by either straight or combinaiional code designations. The diagram is specifically shown for three columnar positions although it may be arranged for more positions by those skilled in the art.

Fig. 15 is a fragment of the plan view of the mechanism of Fig. 16 showing the modification of the sensing pins.

Fig. 16 shows the arrangement of the sensing pins for group sensing of three columnar positions.

Fig. 17 is a fragment of a typical record card showing possible data indicia in both upper and lower zones and the interpretation of the indicia shown.

Fig. 18 is a view similar to that of Fig. 1'1.

Fig. 19 is a vertical section through the card magazine and sensing chamber showing the mechanism for controlling the card feeding.

Fig. 20 shows mechanism contolled by the mechanism of Fig. 19 and associated with stopping the machine.

Fig. 21 is an isometric view of the device for holding the pin which instigates the setting of a card-gate in actuated position.

Fig. 22 is a detail of the card gate raising disc and its associated mechanism.

The present application is directed to a disclosure of my invention embodied in a machine of the type illustrated and described in United States Letters Patent Nos. 1,476,161 and 1,864,075.

Since the general construction and operation of these machines are well known in the art, only such features as may be necessary to completely describe and understand this invention will be included herein.

It will be evident, after referring to the above named patents, that certain modifications are necessary in the mechanism described therein in order to accomplish the purpose of the present invention and embody its mechanism therein. It will also be evident to those versed in the art that this inventionmight be embodied in machines other than described in the above mentioned patents.

Referring to the drawings, a sensing device 20 (Fig. 1) which reciprocates toward and away from the sensing position of the card is supported on the top of a framed pedestal 2|, in the manner shown in the cited Patent 1,864,075, within which pedestal are mounted a motor generator set 22 and a relay box 28. Adjacent the top of pedestal 2|, and at the right, is a switch box 24. A card magazine 25 is provided at the top of pedestal 2|.

A picker device 36 (Fig. 2) of well known construction is provided, the one shown being that of the sorter described in the cited patents. Feed rolls II are provided, which transport the cards to the sensing chamber, where they are held in sensing position by card stop 29. Skid rolls 32 are provided, which project the cards, after they are sensed and card stop 29 is removed, to a position to be engaged by eject rolls 23; from thence the cards are carried by transport rolls 34 and 34a to a position to be received by card pockets 35. Card gates 36 are then opened under control of mechanism which will be hereinafter described, and the respective cards are deflected into card pockets 35.

The cards, which may be used in a machine embodying the present invention, may be the ordinary paper card, perforated in various positions toindicate data. Or it may be that the data are indicated by marking the digit positions with a graphite pencil. Or the data positions may be printed-with a special conductive ink. Or the data may be indicated on cards of conductive material by scraping a non-conductive coating from the data positions.

The cards shown (Figs. 3, 4, and 5) are typical of cards and data which may be used in conjunc tion with the mechanism of the present invention. The data may be represented in single-hole code, or any one of many multi-hole codes.

Mechanism for sensing the indicia on the cards is provided. A form of this mechanism suitable for a single column of data is shown in Figs. 6, 7, and 9, and is comprised of sensing pins 4|, guide bars 42 and 42, insulating block 44, springs 45, spring seats 46, contact shoes 41 and 48, insulating and retaining plate 49, insulators 50, side frames 5|, notched rod 52, rod 52A, contact screw 53, bus 54 and such screws, bolts, washers, spacers, nuts and pins as may be necessary for proper assembly.

Sensing pins 4| are slidably mounted in guide bars 42 and 43, and block 44. Compression springs 45 tend to maintain the sensing pins in their lowermost position. Spring seats 46 assure an electric contact from pins 4| through springs 45 to contact shoes 41, which lie in grooves in the upper surface of block 44. Retaining plate 49 is secured to block 44 by a suitable number i of bolts and, hence, serves as a clamp which maintains the contact shoes in a fixed relation to block 44. Guide bars 42 and 43, and retaining plate 49, are rigidly mounted between frames 5|, which are slidable on rods 52 and 52A. Contact screw 53 holds bus 54 in position and insures the electric contact between bar 42 and shoe 48.

Mechanism is provided to lock and unlock the sensing mechanism to permit sensing in any columnar position. This feature involves the release of the slidable frames 5| and the elevation of the sensing pins 4|, because the pins may be momentarily entered in a hole 39 in the perforated top plate 48 (Fig. 2) of the sensing chamber. It may happen that the machine is stopped with the sensing pins 4| entered in the perforations 39 in plate 40. In order then that sensing head may be moved to a desired new columnar position, the sensing pins 4| must be elevated suificiently to clear perforated plate 40. This mechanism consists of a T-shaped member 55, fixed pawl 56, notches 51, arm 58, arms 59 and 68, shaft 6|, bail 62 and shoulder 63.

Pressure upon T-shaped member 55 will remove fixed pawl 56 from engagement with a notch 51. Simultaneously, arm 58, which is integral with member 55, acts upon arm 58 which is fast on shaft 6| (Fig. 7) rocking both arm 59 and shaft 6| in a clockwise direction. The rocking of shaft 6| causes arms 60 which are in engagement with a hook on each of the upwardly extending ends of ball 62 to elevate'said bail and raise sensing pins 4| which are disposed in holes in bail 62 and are prevented from passing therethrough by shoulders 63. Bail 62 is a composite element comprising a channeled metallic piece inlaid with a strip of non-conductive material. Hence, bail 62 is insulated with respect to sensing pins 4| and yet is of sumcient strength to perform its function of elevating pins 4|.

Sensing pin 4| is adapted to sense either holes or conductive markings and is shown in detail in Fig. 8. The parts of a sensing pin are electrically conductive sleeve 66, insulating bushings 61 and 68, electrically conductive core 69 and spring 18.

iii

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Bushing 81 is pressed into sleeve 88 where it is held in position by the interior shoulder. Bushing 88 is pressed into the sleeve until its shoulder rests upon the shoulder 88 of the sleeve. Spring 18 is disposed to surround core 88 which is passed through the central holes in bushings 81 and 88. The respective shoulders on bushings 81 and 88 prevent the downward displacement of these insulating bushings by the action of springs 45 and 18. Core 88 is held in normal position by p ssure f p in 5 (Fig. 6) and shoulder against bushing 81 (Fig. 8). Normally, core 88 projects slightly beyond sleeve 88 so that when in sensing position contact is assured due to 88 and 88 being under spring pressure. This feature takes into consideration any unevenness or variation in the surface of the mark contacted. It would be possible to make the sensing pin with a fixed core in which case spring 18 would be eliminated and the core 88 and sleeve 88 would be flush at the lower end. Such a pin, however, would not be an improvement over the one shown in Fig. 8. Spring 18 serves to provide positive contact of 88 and 88 and also to restore 88 to normal position after sensing.

Fastened to each contact shoe 41 is a conductive socket such as I84 (Fig. 9) for receiving a plug to permit desired electrical connection between any one pin and any other. This arrangement makes it possible to divert the cards from the pocket in which they would normally fall into any other desired pocket. Thus, the device is adaptable to the exigencies of special problems that may arise.

To'permit accessibility for this plugging arrangement, a cover 18 (Fig. 6) which is composed of a suitable insulating material, is held in position and attached to the reciprocating mechanism in such a manner that conductive strips 11 and 18 (Fig. 10) are always in electrical contact with shoes 41 and 48. Conductive strips 11 and 18 which are securely fastened to cover 18 are turned upwardly at one end and disposed against contacts 18. Conductive strip 18 is constituted as a ground or common. Each strip 11 is associated respectively with one of the sensing pins 4I through the medium of contact shoe 41. Strip 18 is associated with shoe 48, which, in turn, is electrically connected with bar 42. through bus 54 and screw 58.

Since perforated cards may be utilized to record data, the sensing chamber must be so constructed that sensing pin 4I will function with the same efliciency, as when used in sensing cards bearing conductive markings. Hence, bottom plate 48 (Fig. 2) of the sensing chamber is a piece of fiat conductive material having no perforations and provided with a removable portion so that a nonconductive medium may be inserted to provide for the rejection of all records having data designated by perforations.

An electric system is provided for controlling the specific activity of the machine, which is, in the present embodiment, a card sorter.

The electric system for single columnar sensing or straight or combinational code is diagrammatically shown in Figs. 10, l1, and 12, and com- Sensing III The mechanism, which is provided to prevent the feeding of cards, is shown in Fig. 19 and comprises lever 28, link 28I, bar 282, shaft 288, finger members 284, pivot 285, pin 288, latch 281, spring 288, and pivot 288., Lever 28 is pivoted at 285 and carries link 28I which is flexibly attached thereto by pin 288. Bar 282 is fixedly attached to each of two finger members 284 loosely mounted on shaft 283, and is 'urged to an upward position indicated by dot and dash lines by a suitable spring (not shown). Latch 281 is pivoted at 288 and is urged forwardly (to the left in Fig. 19) by spring 288.

Let it be assumed that finger members 284 are in their upward position. The cards in the magazine 28 are then raised in a position out of contact with picker 21. When normal voltage is indicated, the operator presses lever 28 to the rear (to the right in Fig. 19) and thereby forces link 28I down. This action forces bar 282 and finger members 284 downwardly until bar 282 is engaged by latch 281 at which time finger member 284 permits the lowermost card in the magazine to be moved by the picker knife 21 and fed by the carrier or feed rolls to sensing position, where it is held by card stop 28 described in the cited reference 1,476,161, while the data designations are sensed by the sensing pins 4I.

Mechanism, comprising card absence detecting pin 28I, lever 282, lever 288 and lever 888 (Fig. are provided to stop the machine when the supply of cards becomes exhausted. Additional mechanism, comprising shaft 382, interponent 288, pin 285, lever SM and lever 388, is provided. The mechanisms are fully shown and described in cited reference patents and need not, therefore, be considered further.

The sensing head 28 (Fig. 1) is given a recipro catory motion by an eccentric driven crank or rod such as is used and well known on machines of the type to which this invention is adapted. When the sensing head is in its down position, the sensing pins 4| are spring pressed by springs 48 and 18 upon the columnar index positions of the card, which has just been fed to analyzing position in timed relation with the movement of the reciprocating head 28. The component parts, sensing dataindicated by a single perforation or mark, are diagrammatically illustrated in Fig. 10 and will now be described. The analyzing of combinational or code designations, shown diagrammatically in Fig. 11, will be described later. When data designated by a conductive mark is contacted by pins 4I, current will flow from the positive terminal of the generator 22 to contact 18, through common contact bus 18, to contact shoe 48, to contact screw 58, to bar 42, and thence to sleeve 88 of all sensing pins. When a mark is sensed, the current continues via the mark to core 88 of the pin. through spring 45, spring seat 48, contact shoe 41, bus 11, a contact 18, cutout switch 84, one of the relays in the group 8I2, 8| I, 88-88 to the current source. This occurrence energizes one of the relays causing its contacts to close and establish a circuit from the positive terminal of the current source, through the relay contacts to three-position switch 83, thence through one or the contacts of switch 93, one of the solenoids I3I2, I3II, I3l-I39, and back to the negative terminal of the current source. In the present embodiment, energizing a solenoid actuates a bell crank I45 (Figs. 1, 10, and 21), which, in turn, moves plunger I41 against a spring I into the path of the card gate raising cams 252 on the timing discs'95 (Fig. 22) which are revolving on shaft I43 in timed relationship to the movement of the card.

The energization of a solenoid (I3I2, I3I I, I- I33) will rock bell crank I about its pivot to push pin I41 which is supported in sleeve 253 against spring "I until notch 255 matches latch 254, thereby locking pin I41 in position to contact one of the card gate raising cams 252 (see Fig. 1). As discs 55 rotate, pins 253 (see Fig. 1) contact latches 254 and rock them against the action of spring 255, thereby releasing pin I41.

In the present invention, sensing pins 4| contact the index point for a period sufliciently long to permit the current to build up enough to actuate the relay. This eiIects control of a solenoid and the mechanism associated therewith which in the present embodiment is a timing disc 35 described in Patent No. 1,476,161. By depressing key 95 of switch 94 to locking position, associated relay in the group 3I2, III, -89, is rendered ineiIective by reason of the open circuit established between the relay and the tensing pin 4|. In this way, designated data may be disregarded at will according to requirements.

The mechanism for delivering the card to its proper station is described in Patent No. 1,476,161. Although the present embodiment provides sufllcient time for the sensing pins to contact the index points to hold plunger I41 in the path of cams 252 which are rotating with disc causing the cams to be raised to latching position, an altel-native latching device may be provided to hold plunger I41 in eiIective position so that the time element may be disregarded. The mechanism of this device is shown in Fig. 21 and consists of latch 254, spring 255 and notch 255. Fig. 21 shows the end of pin I41 exploded from the remainder of the mechanism to emphasize notch 255. A bracket 25I is fixedly mounted on plate 259, utilizing the sleeve 255 and nut 250 as means for securing it in position. At the downward end oi bracket 25I a pin 251 provides for the pivotal mounting of latch 254. A spring 255, disposed between stud 252 and the upwardly extending portion of bracket 25 I, provides means for retaining latch 254 in its effective position.

When a perforation is sensed, the circuit is established by pin 4I passing through the peroration and contacting conductive plate 15. By substituting a non-conductive plate 90 for conductive plate 15 perforated data will not be sensed. Markings may be rejected by disconnecting the common connection from 14 (Fig. 6)

and connecting same to the conductive plate 15 (Fig. 2). In this way the current passes from the plate 15 to the core 55 (Fig. 8) of the sensing pin and through the contact strip 11 to the relays.

Fig. 11 shows the wiring diagram for sensing straight or combinational data designations. By using combinational code designations the data capacity or a record is greatly increased. Fig. 11 is arranged for sensing the codes shown in Figs. 17 and 18. By the mere shifting of the lever or the position-selecting switch 93, the sensing pins become adaptable for sensing an entire column or, alternatively, either its upper or lower zone.

Referring to Fig. 11, the columnar index point positions, or designations are indicated as 99. Associated with each index position is a switch 94 manually controlled by key 95 (shown in Fig. 10) a relay (H2, 3II, 30-59) position-selecting switch 93 and a solenoid (I3I2, I3II, ISO-I39). Relays IXA and IXB pertain to code sensing in which capacity they will later be described.

Assume that a. record with data indicated at the II position of the straight code is being sensed by pins 4I, switch 93 is set so that the respective arms thereof are closed on contacts I6I2, IIIII, IOU-I59; current then passes through the conductive medium at the index point to actuate relay 32 and close its two contacts; current then passes to 2s solenoid I32 via wire I5I, contact I52, wire I53 and contact I02; current also passes from IN through contact I54 and wire I55 energizing relay IXA and breaking contact I55. Current may also pass through contact I51 and wire I55 to contact II1 associated with TS solenoid I31, but no circuit is completed because the associated contact arm of switch 93 is assumed to be set on contact I01 and relay I11 has not been actuated.

In the combinational code selected, it will be noted that for even numbers the III position is always in combination with either XI, X, I, or II position in the upper zone, and the IX position is always in combination with V, VI, VII, or VIII position in the lower zone. However, it should be understood that the circuits may be varied by those skilled in the art to sense codes other than are described in the present embodiment of this invention.

The sensing of a designation in the upper zone in the position associated with relay 82 should actuate 7's solenoid I31, and the sensing of designations at both II and III positions, should actuate 8's solenoid I38, which condition is in accordance with the selected code.

For upper zone selection, when combinational code is being sensed, switch 93 has its respective contact arms set on contacts III2, IIII, IIII-I I9. Assuming that the II position is sensed, relay B2 is energized and its contacts I52 and I54 closed. Contact I 52 is connected to solenoid I32 through contact I02, but no circuit is established because the contact arm is now set at II2. established, however, from contact I52 of relay 52 to contact I51 of relay 83 and thence through wire I53 to contact II1 of switch 93 and connecting to 7'5 solenoid I31. Contact I54 of relay 52 is also closed thereby energizing relay IXA and breaking contact I55. No current, however, is passing through I55 as relay 83 is not energized.

When code designations corresponding to both II and III positions of the straight code, that is, digit eight in the selected combination code. are sensed, relays 52, 53 and IXA are energized. Contacts I52 and I54 of relay 32 are closed. Contact I52 carries current to contact I52, but the 2's solenoid I32 is not aiIected due to the contact arm being set at II2. Current from I52 is also carried to contact I51 of relay 53, which contact is now open, relay 33 being energized, and so prevents 7s solenoid I31 from becoming energized. The closing of contact I 54 of relay 32 causes relay IXA to be energized, opening contact I55. Relay 33 being energized its contact I5! is closed and The circuit is a circuit is established from I52 (relay 82) to I59 andthence to contact 'I I9 and solenoid I38, causing its operation. No current is passing to contacts I68, IGI or I62 as relays 8H, 69 and 8| are not energized. Contact I63 of relay 83 is closed and permits current to flow to contact I56 of relay IXA, but since IXA is energized through contact I54 of relay 82, its contact I56 is broken and no current fiows to contact I I 9 and solenoid I39.

If, however, relay 83 is alone energized, current will pass from its contact I63 to contact I56 and thence to contact H9 and solenoid I39, causing its actuation which actuation is in accordance with the code selected. In this illustration, contact I56 is closed since relay IXA is not actuated.

The foregoing description describing the upper field sensing is also applicable to the lower field which involves relays 85, 86, 81, 88, 89 and IXB.

If the significant indicia, say two, appears in the lower zone, the manipulative three-position switch 93 is closed on contacts I2I2, I2I I, I-I29. Sensing pins 4|, in position V and IX, complete circuits through conductive markings on the card, or, alternatively, through conductive plate 80. Energization of relay 85 causes its armature to close a circuit, which leads to one of the elements of the armature of relay 89 and a circuit through relay IXB. Closing the circuit through relay- 89 causes the armature element thereof, which is connected to relay 85, to establish a circuit through contact I22 and solenoid I32.

Similarly, for any other indicia represented in either straight or combination perforations, the closing of circuits by sensing pins contacting indicia energizes appropriate relays and thereby actuates solenoids, which have been predesignated as corresponding to the sensed indicia.

In machines for group sensing, mechanism which is a modification of that shown in Fig. '1 for single column sensing, is provided. This modified mechanism is shown in Figs. 15 and 16. The general characteristics of construction are those of the former device, shown in Fig. '7. It is necessary, in order to maintain the columnar spacing, that collars 63 of sensing pins ll be fiattened, as shown in Fig. 15. The segregation of the electric circuits associated with each column of pins is assured by the use of insulators 250, I, and 252, which are disposed between the columns of sensing pins. A shoe 241 and an additional bus (not shown) are provided for securing a possible circuit through relay 240 (Fig. 14). As shown herein a device for sensing a three column group is contemplated, but it will be apparent to one skilled in the art that more than three columns may be included in the group hook-up.

As an illustrative example, let it be assumed that labor distribution data are required in a shop manufacturing machine parts. A form of record card which is typical of those in use in the present method of collecting such data is shown in Fig. 3. The workmen write in spaces assigned for that purpose, the information pertaining to their particular job." When the data are complete, the record is forwarded to another department, where the card is to be perforated according to the data written thereon. This method, it will be evident presents a possibility for error and also involves a time element. Fig. 3 is shown with written data and the corresponding perforations.

To reduce errata to a minimum and increase the speed of recording the data, another system has been devised whereby the workman or employee indicates the data in correct index position by a mark capable of being sensed by a light sensitive cell. When the record is completed, it is placed in a machine which reproduces the marked data in the form of perforations in an other card. Now it will be evident that this system requires costly machines, the final output of which may not be an accurate reproduction of -the original data due to dirt, grease, and the like,

which effect the correct cooperation of the parts. Furthermore, such a system results in unnecessary duplication of records with accompanying increased cost and confusion. Fig. 4 shows by way of illustration, a form of record which may be used to carry out this system with light sensitive markings indicated at their proper positions by theemployee.

By way of illustration, Fig. 5 shows a form of. record card which may be used in connection with the present invention. Certain data, as order number, part number, account number, etc., may be previously indicated on the card, either in the form of a perforation or a mark either of which will cooperate with the sensing device of the present invention. To prevent any change in data which are previously known, such data may be indicated by perforations. When the job is completed, the workman indicates the data by placing conductive markings (the block rectangles in Fig. 5) with a suitable graphite pencil or special ink at the proper index positions. Thus, an original record is made which is capable of being sensed by the device disclosed herein. Obviously, this method of procedure practically eliminates possibility of error and at the same time makes the procedure economical in the highest degree. Furthermore, the space available for data for a given size card is vastly increased because the reverse side of the card may also be used for information.

In the diagram (Fig. 14), HI, I12, I13 represent index columns adjacent to each other. The relays at column I13 are connected the same as in Fig. 11.

Assume the number 135 is to be selected. Switch 93 is set for straight sensing. A wire I16 arranged for plugging in, is connected from I81 to I93, and switches 2II, 2I2 and 2M opened, and switch 2I3 closed. Switch 225 is closed and the remaining switches of column I13 open. When the group data 135, indicated on the record is sensed, the current goes through the wire 2I5, which is connected to the positive side of the generator 22 to I81, thence through wire I16 to I93, to 233 to 2I6, to switch 2I3 to wire 2I1, to 205 through switch 225, and then to the corresponding relay 95 which is actuated, thus causing solenoid I to function. Any or all positions in the units column may be sensed by the setting of the switches on column I13. The circuits for the actuation of the relays are the same as heretofore described and will not, therefore, be repeated.

It is also possible to sense columns I12 and I13. In this case switches 2H and 2I2 are closed and 2I3 and 2I4 open. If, for example, digit I is to be sensed in column I12, then one end of wire I11 is plugged in at I9I and the other end in I18. In this case, the current goes through switches 2H and 2I2 to wire 2I6, through I9I, wire I11 to terminal I18, thence to column I13 and then to the relays.

It will be readily seen that columns HI and I13 may also be sensed omitting column I12 by plugging from the desired position in column HI to I18 and opening switches 2II, 2I2, 2i! and Column I13 only may be sensed by closing switches 2H and 2 and opening 2I2 and 2I3 before operating the machine.

Any index point may be sensed in column I1I with I12 and I13 omitted by plugging connections between all terminals Isl-I88, IBM and III2, and terminals 200-205, "I I, 2M2 with switches 2II, 2I2, 2I3 and 2 open. Likewise, column I12 may be sensed and HI and I1! omitted by plugging connections between all terminals 210-239, 23 and 23I2 and terminals 200-209, 2IIII and 2M2, and closing switches 2I I and 2I2 and opening 2I3 and 2I4.

The circuit will now be described in connection with group sensing, the data being indicated by combinational designations. While the code selected is what is known as the five-point code, it is to be understoodthat the present invention might be modified so as to be adapted to other codes as well.

As hereinbefore described, switch 83 and the circuits connected thereto, sense data designations on records whether the code used is straight or combinational. Switch 83 is also arranged for sensing either the upper or lower zone of such a I record as that shown in Fig. 1'1.

Assume for illustration, that the number 465 designated in the upper zone is to be sensed. Switch 93 is moved to contacts IIII-I I9, IIII and III2. Relay 240 is arranged with its input terminal connected to a plug socket 24 I, and its contacts to socket 242 and 242, so that circuits may be established as required between these terminals and columns "I and I12 in the diagram (Fig. 14). The X and III index positions in combination indicate the digit tour, so wires 246 and 241 are connected to 2 and 242, respectively. The I and III index positions in combination indicate the digit six so wire 248 is connected by plugging to 243 and I93, also wire I11 is connected between IBI and I18. All switches of group I13, except 22I, are open, but by closing all switches of the upper zone (22, 22 and 220-223) any number in the units position may be sensed. Switches 2II, 2I2, 2H and 2 are open.

When the record designated in the upper field at 465 is sensed, a circuit is established from the positive side of the generator 22 to wire 2I5, through position I80 in column Hi, to wire 246 and energizing relay 2" and closing its contact. Since the 3 position is also sensed, a circuit is established through wire 241 to 242, through the closed relay contacts to 242, thence through wire 248 through 223 to wire 2", through HI and thence to wire I11 to I and wire 2I1, which is connected to all index positions of the upper and lower field. In column I12 the current passes from wire 2" through 2M, and energizes the relay BI associated with the 1 position which in the combinational code is interpreted as 5.

If the number in column I12 indicates a single designation according to the code, then the con nection of wire I11 is not necessary and switch 2 I3 is closed. If column "I has a single designation, then connections to 2 242 and 243 are not made, it being only necessary to make the proper connections between terminals in the group "I2, IBII, ISO-I89 and those in the group I9I2, IQII, Ian-I99.

While there are above described but a limited number of embodiments of the invention, it is possible to produce still other embodiments without departure from the inventive concept above disclosed, and it is, therefore, desired that only such limitations shall be imposed on the appended claims as are stated therein, or required by the prior art.

What I claim as new, Letters Patent, is:

1. In combination, a reciprocating sensing means comprising a plurality of contact pins each having an inner member and an outer member, both of said members being movable with respect to each other, electric circuits; and means for connecting the inner members in series and the outer members in parallel in said circuit.

2. In combination a reciprocating sensing means comprising contact pins arranged in columns, each pin having an inner member and an outer member, which members are relatively movable and insulated from each other, said inner member being slightly longer than the outer member at the contact end of said pins, an electric circuit and" means for connecting the inner members in series and the outer members in parallel in said circuit.

3. A record card sensing device, comprising a columnar assembly of sensing pins, mechanism for causing sensing to occur by reason of the reciprocation 0! said assembly, mechanism for moving said assembly to successive positions for sensing any desired column of said card, and means including electric circuits which may be closed by said sensing pins for rendering said sensing device responsive to both periorated indicia and conductive indicia in any one of said positions.

4. A reciprocating card sensing device for sensing cards bearing columnar indicia, comprising a columnar assembly of sensing pins, and mechanism for moving said assembly to successive sensing positions, each of said sensing pins comprising a spring urged electrically conductive core, an insulating sleeve therefor, and a spring urged electrically conductive shell for rendering said sensing device alternatively responsive to either perforated indicia or conductive indicia in each of said successive positions.

5. In a machine responsive to records arranged in columns on indicia bearing cards the combination of, an instrumentality tobe controlled, and a device comprising a spring urged conductive shell, 9. spring urged core therein and cooperative therewith for eflecting sensing, and an and desire to secure by insulating sleeve therebetween, said device being manually settable to control said instrumentality according to either perforated indicia or conductive indicia in any selected column of said cards.

6. In a machine responsive to records arranged in columns on indicia bearing cards; a plurality of instrumentalities to be controlled; 2. device comprising a column of spring urged conductive shells, each containing an insulating sleeve and a conductive core, said shells and cores constituting sensing elements for eflfecting control of said instrumentalities according to the indicia borne by said cards; and manipulative means for selecting any desired instrumentalities to be controlled to the exclusion of the others.

7. In a machine responsive to records arranged in columns on indicia bearing cards, a plurality of instrumentalities to be controlled, a device comprising a plurality of columns of spring urged conductive shells each containing an insulating sleeve and a conductive core, said shells and cores constituting sensing elements for controlling said instrumentalities according to the indicia borne by said cards, and means for setting said device to control a single one of said instrumentalities.

8. In a machine responsive to records arranged in columns and portrayed according to one 01 a plurality of codes on indicia bearing cards, a plurality oi instrumentallties to be controlled, a device comprising a column of spring urged conductive shells each containing an insulating sleeve and a conductive core said shells and cores constituting sensing elements for eflecting control of said instrumentalities, and manipulative means for connecting said instrumentalities to said device to effect control of instrumentalities according to the code used to portray the indicia.

9. In a machine of the class described, the combination of records arranged in columns and portrayed according to one of a plurality of codes by either perforated indicia or conductive indicia,

a plurality of stations which are rendered eilective according to said indicia, an assembly of a number oi! indicia sensing elements equal to the number of indicia positions in a column, means for reciprocating said elements into indicia sensing position, means for setting said assembly in position for sensing any oi! said columns, sensing elements alternatively capable of sensing perforated indicia and conductive indicia, each said sensing element comprising a spring urged conductive shell, an insulating core, means for connecting said instrumentalities to said sensing elements to eilect control of said instrumentalities according to the code of the indicia, and means for rendering said instrumentalities responsive to records portrayed by both perforated indicia and conductive indicia.

WILLIAM W. LASKER, JR. 

